It’s beautiful – and natural “Get me out of here – this is dangerous!” “I don’t dare tell my wife about this.” “Everything is so different – it’s a beautiful shop!” O wner of Blackheath’s Ravir Boutique, Raelene Allen, hears comments such as these almost every day and never gets sick of hearing the feedback. “It’s such an affirmation that we’re hitting the mark,” she says. “People love the diversity of clothing and that fact that so much is in natural fibres. “But mature women in particular love us because we manage to find beautiful clothing in gorgeous colours and flattering styles that suit all different shapes. You don’t have to dress badly because of your age.” Men, too, find much to like at Ravir. In winter they come for the bulky hand- knitted Nepalese jumpers and beautiful “The great thing about these alternativefibres is their low impact on the environment.” soft merino knitwear. They also appreciate hemp clothing, such as jeans and shirts, even socks and boxers, all of which get better with age. There are more exotic fibres as well. Ever heard of soy base layers? They’re so soft you won’t want to take them off. Made for men and women by Gondwana, they are 95 per cent soy fibre. And how about a bamboo top or pants? Once again, bamboo is incredibly smooth, heaven for those with sensitive skin as it feels even smoother than silk. Another contender for smoother than silk is micro- modal, made from Australian beechwood. It makes the most divine under garments. “The great thing about these alternative fibres is their low impact on the environment. They’re easy to grow, not too thirsty and don’t require much in the way of chemicals to enhance their growth. “Not surprisingly, the Chinese are way out in front when it comes to producing these more sustainable fibres,” says Raelene. “But thankfully things are beginning to change and the good news is that Australian regulations on growing hemp for fibre are being eased. That’s got to be good news for the environment.” Experience some fine Country Hospitality at THE IMPERIAL HOTEL Located in the whisper quiet Mount Victoria Village, The Imperial Hotel is central to Jenolan Caves, Glow Worm Caves, Zig Zag Railway, Scenic Railway, Echo Point, Day Spas, a host of Walking Tracks and Lookouts, Historical Hartley, Art Galleries, Antique Stores and Museums. The hotel is one of the finest and oldest built in Australia, with open fireplaces, leadlight decorated dining room, original furnishings and memorabilia. Return to the era of elegance. • Excellent Brasserie Meals - Open 7 Days for Lunch & Dinner • Coffee, Cake & Light Meals available 8am-8.30pm daily • Weekend BBQ’s and Live Entertainment • Accommodation and Dinner Packages to suit all budgets • Ask about our Yulefest, Faulty Tales, Murder Mystery, Wedding, Corporate Functions/Conferences and Long Weekend Packages Call now for details! Phone 02 4787 1878 • Facsimile: 02 4787 1461 • imperial@lisp.com.au • www.hotelimperial.com.au • Australia’s Oldest Tourist Hotel • 1 Station Street, Mount Victoria NSW 2786 (opposite the post office) spring 2008 www.bluemountainstouristnewspaper.com.au 23